Have you caught this viral flu? Let's learn more about the flu!

Have you ever suddenly had a high fever that made your body ache and made it so hard to get out of bed that you couldn't even get out of bed ? Do you have a heavy head and chest pain when you cough? Many people have had this experience these days. Although we call it a " viral flu ," it could actually be a medical condition called the flu or influenza . So today, let's talk about what the flu is, how to avoid it, and what are the most important things you need to know about it.

What exactly is Flu?

Simply put, the flu is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by viruses called influenza A or B. It usually occurs during the colder months, which is the end of the year and the beginning of the year in our country. This virus enters our body and attacks the upper respiratory tract, such as the throat , nose, and sometimes the lungs, causing us difficulty.

What is the difference between a common cold and the flu?

This is something that many people get confused about. While both the common cold and the flu are respiratory illnesses caused by viruses, the flu is a much more serious condition . While a cold may make you feel a little uncomfortable, the flu can be so debilitating that you can't even get out of bed.

To understand exactly this difference, let's look at this table.

If the flu becomes severe, it can lead to life-threatening conditions like pneumonia. Therefore, it is very important to be aware of these symptoms.

Is this the same as the "stomach flu"?

No. This is also a place where many people get confused. Some people call stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea "stomach flu." But that's a misnomer. In medical terms, we call that condition gastroenteritis. That means inflammation of the stomach and intestines. The viruses that cause it are completely different from the influenza virus, which affects the respiratory system.

How is the flu transmitted?

The flu virus spreads very easily from person to person.

• By respiratory droplets: The virus is in tiny droplets that come out of the nose and mouth of an infected person when they cough, sneeze, laugh, or talk. If we breathe in that air, we can also become infected.
• By direct contact: There is a risk of infection if we use things like cups, plates, and spoons that have been used by an infected person.
• By touching dirty things: The virus can enter the body if we touch something like a doorknob, table, or telephone that is contaminated with the virus and then touch our eyes, nose, or mouth with that dirty hand.

This is why washing your hands regularly with soap and water is the best way to protect yourself from illnesses like the flu. Symptoms usually appear within one to four days after the virus enters the body.

Who is most at risk from the flu?

Although anyone can get the flu, some people are at higher risk of developing serious complications.

• Babies and children under 5 years old
• People over 65 years of age (our mothers, fathers, grandparents)
• Pregnant mothers
• People with chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease (such as asthma), and HIV

It is imperative that these people seek medical advice immediately if they develop flu symptoms.

Are there types of this flu virus?

Yes. Think of this flu virus as a disguised person. There are three main types of influenza: influenza A, B, and C. Of these, influenza A is the type that constantly mutates and creates new strains of the virus. This is why even if we get the flu once, our bodies don't have immunity against the new strain of the virus that comes out next year. That means we can get the flu again.

Influenza type B can also cause pandemics, but is not as severe as A. Type C usually does not cause severe symptoms.

Special warning about giving aspirin to children

Never give aspirin to children and young people under the age of 18, especially during a viral illness like the flu.If given in this way, although very rarely, a serious complication called Reye's syndrome can occur, which can damage the liver and brain and can even be life-threatening. Therefore, when a child has a fever, do not give any medicine without asking a doctor.

If you would like more information about this situation, you can call the National Poison Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. However, remember, it is essential to consult your doctor before making any medical decisions.